Interdisciplinary approaches to understanding and preserving mudbrick architecture in regional and diachronic contexts

Abstract

Abstract Mudbrick is a challenging material to interpret, maintain, and preserve in terms of planning and treatment decision-making—especially when recovered during archaeological excavation. Further challenges exist where mudbrick remains have been exposed and abandoned, as interactions with the environment (especially water and wind) introduce additional dissolution and damage of the resource. In this paper, we present multidisciplinary research focused on the interpretation and preservation of ancient and vernacular mudbrick architecture in the Marmara Lake Basin in western Turkey. Of interest is the preservation of mudbrick and stone foundations at Kaymakçı, a Middle to Late Bronze Age, ridge-top citadel. We demonstrate that utilizing multiple lines of evidence, including macromorphological, mineralogical, and chemical studies interpreted within the context of extant vernacular traditions in the region, produces a nuanced understanding of the archaeological evidence. Further, ethnographic and experimental archaeological research with local stakeholders allows for the development of a robust template for testing and implementing sustainable site-preservation strategies for in situ architecture with immediate communities.